Islamic scholar Malam Abdulrahaman Nuhu Almaliky, a member of the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS/Izala), has defended Nigeria’s Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, saying he would rather endure hardship under a Muslim president than enjoy comfort under a Christian leader.
Almaliky made the remarks in a sermon circulated on social media, where he defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s same-faith leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
‘I Am Campaigning for Islam’
In the video, Almaliky said: “For me, having a Muslim as leader while I eat grass is better than having an infidel as leader while I eat chicken every day.”
He further argued that Muslim leadership protects Islamic interests, claiming that “ninety per cent of things are covered, while only 10 per cent are revealed, all for our good.”
According to him, “an infidel will harm my religion,” while supporters of the administration should understand the religious significance of the current leadership.
“We are not campaigning for Tinubu; we are campaigning for Islam,” he added.
Remarks Follow Jingir Controversy
Almaliky’s comments come amid controversy over recent remarks by Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, a prominent JIBWIS cleric and an ally of Almaliky.
Jingir recently referred to Christians as “infidels” while defending Muslim-Muslim political tickets and urging Muslims to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of future elections. His comments attracted condemnation from Christian leaders and other Nigerians.
The National Human Rights Commission also described Jingir’s remarks as hate speech and incitement, calling for appropriate action.
Cleric Responds to Economic Hardship
Almaliky also addressed complaints about economic hardship under the Tinubu administration, suggesting that some personal actions prohibited by Islam could contribute to people’s difficulties.
He referenced issues including disrespect for parents and same-sex relationships while arguing that hardship should not always be blamed solely on government policies.
His comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some supporters defending his religious position while critics questioned whether leadership should be judged primarily by religious identity or by its ability to provide food, security and decent living conditions.
Muslim-Muslim Ticket Remains Contentious
Tinubu and Shettima’s Muslim-Muslim ticket was one of the most debated issues during the 2023 presidential election. Supporters argued that competence and political considerations should take priority, while critics raised concerns about religious representation and balance in Nigeria’s multi-faith society.
The latest comments have renewed discussions about religion and politics as parties and political groups begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. Neither the Presidency nor Vice President Shettima has issued an immediate public response to Almaliky’s remarks.
